Herpestes javanicus (Small Asian Mongoose)Vector Graphic (SVG)Sally BellIntegration and Application Network361 views33 downloads (Details)Native to India, introduced to Hawaii Island in 1883 (via Jamaica, where it was also introduced), then introduced to Maui, Molokai, and Oahu; none were introduced on the island of Kauai. Mongoose were imported by the sugar industry to control rats in cane fields. This infamous mistake was made without much knowledge about mongoose. Mongoose, which are active during the day, did not control the rats because the rats are primarily active at night.Add to lightbox

Lasirus cinereus semotus (Hawaiian Hoary Bat)Vector Graphic (SVG)Jane HawkeyIntegration and Application Network35 views7 downloads (Details)The Hawaiian Hoary Bat, known as ‘ope‘ape‘a in Hawai'i, has a heavy fur coat that is brown and gray, and ears tinged with white, giving it a frosted or "hoary" look. It is believed to be related to the North American hoary bat and it is the only native land mammal of Hawai‘i. ‘Ope‘ape‘a populations are believed to be threatened by habitat loss, pesticides, predation, and roost disturbance. Its decline may be primarily due to the reduction of tree cover in historic times.Add to lightbox